What she said: "A group of 15 students and two teachers from Penn State Behrend spent their spring break studying in Costa Rica," said Ann Quinn, of Erie. "Our group was able to visit four locations: La Selva, Palo Verde, Arenal and Santa Cruz. While in the country, the group studied various species native to Costa Rica in their natural habitats.

"The course was an awesome learning experience. Actually being in the country and seeing the organisms in their natural environment was far more enriching than simply learning in a classroom. Each morning we were up by 5 a.m. -- ready to take advantage of endless opportunities to observe -- thanks to the vocal wildlife. Certainly the most vocal animals were the monkeys and beautiful birds. In Costa Rica, we experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!"